45p Per Unit Minimum Price Announced for Alcohol in Scotland
2 September 2010
Scottish Health Secretary Nicola Sturgeon has announced that there will be a 45p per unit minimum price for alcohol in Scotland.
Ms Sturgeon said: "For too long, too many Scots have been drinking themselves into an early grave. It is no coincidence that as the affordability of alcohol has plummeted in recent decades, alcohol-related deaths, disease, crime and disorder have spiralled.
"I believe it's crucial that we reintroduce realistic alcohol pricing. It cannot be right that a man can exceed his weekly recommended alcohol limit for less than £3.50. That's why we're taking decisive action, including proposals to introduce a minimum price per unit, which would bring these pocket money prices to an end.
"Getting the price right is vital for minimum pricing to work - too low and it will simply be ineffective. After careful consideration, we believe that 45p per unit is the right price.
"Our proposals have already won backing from respected health professionals at home and abroad and I hope, for the sake of our nation's health, they will also win the backing of the Scottish Parliament."
According to the Scottish Government, the introduction of a minimum price will result in 50 fewer deaths from alcohol related harm and 1200 fewer hospital admissions in the first year alone, with over 200 lives saved annually after ten years.